Pay It Forward Retreats Launches First Luxury Getaway

Pay It Forward Retreats has announced its first upscale excursion for 2016. The week-long retreat runs April 10–16 and visits Antigua and Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, with an optional side trip to the Tikal ruins. Designed for female executives, the program combines professional networking, career support and a hands-on global outreach experience.

Only 10 spots are available for this intimate luxury retreat. Participants will stay in historic accommodations, enjoy curated local experiences and visit cultural and archaeological sites. The itinerary also includes guided activities focused on personal growth and leadership development, tailored to meet the needs of senior women in business.

A portion of the trip’s proceeds will benefit a Guatemalan nonprofit that supports women in economically disadvantaged communities through microcredit and business education. The donation component is intended to create lasting impact by helping local women launch or expand small businesses and increase financial independence.

“We created Pay It Forward Global Retreats as a travel club for powerful women to explore the world, give back and learn while they travel. Building your brand and enriching lives can happen simultaneously from outside the office,” said Rachel Coburn Johnsen, co‑founder of Pay It Forward Global Retreats.

Pay It Forward Retreats was founded by Rachel Coburn Johnsen and Robin Samora. Both founders are experienced business executives who share a commitment to mentoring and empowering other women in the workplace. Their goal is to create immersive travel experiences that foster professional growth, creative thinking and meaningful relationships among high-achieving women.

The retreat emphasizes small-group interaction, expert-led workshops and opportunities to connect with local entrepreneurs. Participants can expect a balance of structured sessions for career advancement and unstructured time for reflection, cultural immersion and networking.

This offering is aimed at senior professionals, entrepreneurs and executives seeking a purposeful travel experience that blends luxury, learning and philanthropy. Given the limited availability, interested applicants are encouraged to secure their places promptly.